Exploration of the Nutritional Status of Pregnant Teenagers in Bulilima District, Zimbabwe

Precious Gumpo
Solusi University, Zimbabwe
Email: gumpopre@gmail.com

Abstract: Humanity has always been concerned with teenage pregnancy, and their nutritional status. This study interrogated the nutritional status of third trimester pregnant teenagers ( aged13 to 19) who were admitted at Plumtree Hospital, Bulilima District, Zimbabwe. A self-administered questionnaire and document analysis was used to collect data. SPSS 23.0 and Nutrisurvey2007 were used to analyse data. Actual nutrient intake was compared with the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA). Relationship between variables was tested using Pearson Correlation computation. Results showed that some nutrients met and some moderately met the RDAs. Extremely low nutrients were calcium, fat, sodium, folic acid and vitamin C., (17.73% to 29.5%). Normal deliveries (77.3%) and (22.7%) with complications. Adolescent pregnancy carries serious health risk for both the mother and the new-born, especially in environments with little resources like Bulilima district. Full-term pregnancies were (83.1%) and (2.6%) preterm. Live babies (93.9%) while 4.5% stillbirth, and 1.5% neonatal mortality. (22.7%) were underweight, (75.8%) normal birth weight and (1.5%) overweight. Recorded birth length (97%) normal and 3% low birth length. (1.5%) small head circumference. Pearson Correlation results showed a significant positive correlation between the mother’s weight and the baby’s birth weight r =.325, N=75, p .008. The study concluded that teenage pregnancy, mothers’ diet and low birth weight are serious public health problems in this District. Based on the results, the study recommends implementation of age-appropriate sex education and nutrition intervention programs in rural schools and communities.